Was planning on updating my ipod connection to upgrade from the mini phone jack on top to using the raw digital data from the charging jack connection for better sound. Got to thinking it would be really great to not have to fumble with a wire connection. Has anyone used a Bluetooth adapter to feed the rca's input rather than use a cord? I understand some newer head units have this capability but didn't want to spend money since I really never use the radio unit.

2b. SD card, gets a lower ranking because they usually have a clumsy interface (not as slick as an iPod)

2c. MicroSD generally slower access speeds, temperamental devices that don't multi-task very well. Getting better, still not as good as SD, but I haven't tinkered with this for a while.

3a. The old CD spinning in the deck.

3b. RCA type connection

4. WiFi streaming

5a. It depends... My phono 3.5mm jack was ok in my old boat, the cables were problematic. If I had a Bluetooth connection I think it would have been closer to or better than the 3.5 due other wear/tear problems I had.

5b. Generally speaking, Bluetooth won't be as good as a phono 3.5. This allows you to control the volume from the iPod and gets rid of the cable problems.

6. FM modulator

Your mileage will vary based on the quality of the devices and cables used. There is a business case to replace the deck when you start looking at better quality cables, Bluetooth adapters .

I have one of these in my truck and boat. Sound quality is good. I can't tell the difference between wired and the bluetooth connection. It takes usb power, which is 5v. I hacked up an old mini usb phone charger and put a regular usb connection on the end and hardwired it to a spare 12v switch on the dash.

1. Buy a device that connects to the existing old stereo RCA inputs (or 3.5mm female phono input) on one end and supports A2DP Bluetooth audio streaming. Within this option, you can buy devices that are self powered that have rechargeable batteries built in OR others you'd plumb into your 12v power supply.

2. Buy a new deck that supports the A2DP protocol. In this option, be aware, products like clarion's CMD6 deck state that the head unit supports it...yeah it does - AFTER - you buy the 175.00 adapter. I think Clarion makes a deck that doesn't require this adapter.